HB2955

THE CONTEXT: The Arizona Constitution prohibits substantive law from being included in the general appropriations, capital outlay appropriations and supplemental appropriations bills. However, it is often necessary to make statutory and session law changes to effectuate the budget.

WHAT THE BILL DID: Makes statutory and session law changes relating to human services necessary to implement the FY 2026 state budget.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to turn the Legislature's standard for human services into an enforceable rule. It would require the Department of Child Safety (DCS), within 10 days after the general effective date, to prepare a scope of work for an Extended Foster Care Comprehensive Service Model (Model) that includes supportive services and case management provided by contracted community providers for young adults who participate in the extended foster care program, and would also require the Model's scope of work to include: a) weekly engagement with each young adult; b) life skills training; c) mental and physical health and well-being; d) relational permanency; e) education and enrollment assistance; f) assistance with accessing safe housing attainment and stability for young adults; g) career and employment planning and readiness; h) assistance with accessing transportation services for young adults; and i) flexible funding to support the unique needs of the young adult, including educational services and job training or workforce development, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.